Burundi — Visas and Vaccinations

Burundi visas are required by all nationalities, which can be acquired from local embassies or at Bujumbura airport when arriving from somewhere which has no office or representation. Whenever possible, get a visa before entering the country. The one-month single-entry visa can be renewed at the Police de l’Air, des Frontiéres et des Etrangers if you wish to stay longer.

Health and Safety

A yellow fever certificate is required when you apply for a visa to Burundi. Other immunizations are recommended, including vaccinations for cholera, meningitis and malaria. HIV/AIDS is also prevalent, as well as dysentery and hepatitis E. It is best to have full medical insurance coverage when traveling to Burundi.

It is generally safe to travel around country, though threats of rebel attacks are still present, even with the country’s transition to democracy in 2005. Armed robbery and petty crimes are also present, and visitors should always exercise caution, especially when traveling after dark. Some areas impose curfew laws and many roads are closed at night. If you need to get around the city, take a taxi instead of walking.